Following John Elkann’s harsh criticism of Ferrari’s Formula 1 drivers, journalist Leo Turrini did not hold back his opinion, offering a strong response and drawing an unflattering comparison with Luca di Montezemolo.
Despite a disappointing weekend for Ferrari at the Brazilian Grand Prix, the week had actually started on a positive note for the Maranello team, which had celebrated historic titles in both the WEC drivers’ and constructors’ championships. However, that good mood did not last long. During a media appearance, Ferrari president John Elkann made what many considered illogical and unfair accusations toward his own drivers — statements that quickly sparked reactions from within the paddock and beyond, including a firm response from Leo Turrini.
Elkann’s controversial words about Leclerc and Hamilton
Commenting on Ferrari’s recent form, John Elkann said: “Brazil was a major disappointment. Looking at the Formula 1 season, we can say that our mechanics are performing at championship-winning level, especially considering the progress and efficiency we’ve achieved in pit stops. If we look at our engineers, there’s no doubt the car has improved. But for the rest, it hasn’t been good enough. And it’s important that our drivers stay focused on driving and talk less, because we still have some important races ahead, and finishing second is not impossible.”
These comments were perceived as a direct attack on Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton, both of whom reportedly reacted subtly but understandably to Elkann’s remarks. Many within the Ferrari community viewed the president’s statement as inappropriate and mistimed, especially given the team’s ongoing struggles with the SF-25 project.
Turrini’s sharp response: “Montezemolo would never have said that”
Leo Turrini, one of the most well-known Italian motorsport journalists, expressed his disappointment at Elkann’s behavior, writing: “Never a moment of joy. Let’s put it that way. Would Montezemolo have ever spoken about Ferrari’s drivers the way John Elkann did today? Never. Truly never a joy. To sum it up, after a weekend full of mixed emotions for Ferrari fans, the successor to Enzo Ferrari, Luca di Montezemolo and Sergio Marchionne does what? He launches a direct attack on Leclerc and Hamilton. Yes, they might have their faults, but you can’t pin the failure of an entire F1 season on them.”
Turrini went on to point out that Ferrari’s long title drought cannot be blamed on its drivers: “If Ferrari hasn’t won a drivers’ title since 2007 and a constructors’ trophy in even longer, then clearly the problem doesn’t lie with the 2025 drivers. Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton have often been the only reason the team even salvaged some points from a disastrous year.”
“If Elkann thinks the problem is the drivers, he needs new advisers”
Leo Turrini didn’t stop there, adding another stinging remark by comparing Elkann’s words about the mechanics to his infamous comment about the fastest lap in Baku a few years ago. He concluded: “If Gianni Agnelli’s grandson truly believes that the problem at Ferrari is talkative drivers, then at the very least, he needs to change his advisers, consultants, and managers. Because let’s be honest — if since Schumacher and Räikkönen Ferrari hasn’t won again, it’s certainly not the fault of Alonso, Vettel, Leclerc, or Hamilton. And if they still don’t understand that, then we’ll truly never win again.”
The journalist’s comments captured the sentiment of many Ferrari fans who are disillusioned by the team’s management. According to Leo Turrini, what the Scuderia needs is not a president who relies on consultants and strategists, but one who genuinely loves the team and is determined to bring it back to glory. Unless there is a major change in leadership approach, Leo Turrini warned, Ferrari’s long wait for success in Formula 1 may continue indefinitely.
